The Hyundai Getz, a subcompact car that made its debut in 2002, quickly became a popular choice for urban dwellers and first-time car buyers alike. This nimble vehicle, with its compact dimensions and efficient engine options, carved out a niche in the competitive small car market. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the Hyundai Getz’s history, features, and lasting impact on the automotive industry.
A Brief History of the Hyundai Getz
The Hyundai Getz was introduced as a replacement for the aging Hyundai Accent. Designed to appeal to a younger demographic, the Getz sported a modern, European-inspired design that set it apart from its predecessors. The car was first unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in 2002, and production began shortly after at Hyundai’s Ulsan plant in South Korea.
The Getz was marketed under various names in different regions:
- Hyundai Getz in most European and Asian markets
- Hyundai Click in South Korea
- Hyundai TB (its internal code name) in Japan
- Dodge Brisa in Venezuela
- Inokom Getz in Malaysia
Throughout its production run from 2002 to 2011, the Getz underwent several facelifts and improvements, keeping it competitive in the rapidly evolving small car segment.
Design and Styling
The Hyundai Getz’s design was a departure from Hyundai’s previous offerings. Its rounded edges, large headlamps, and distinctive grille gave it a friendly, approachable appearance that resonated with younger buyers. The car’s compact dimensions made it ideal for navigating crowded city streets and fitting into tight parking spaces.
Interior-wise, the Getz offered a surprisingly spacious cabin for its size. The tall roof line provided ample headroom, while the clever use of space ensured that passengers didn’t feel cramped. The dashboard layout was simple and functional, with all controls within easy reach of the driver.
Engine and Performance
The Hyundai Getz was offered with a range of petrol and diesel engines, catering to different market preferences and regulations. The engine options varied depending on the region, but generally included:
- 1.1L petrol engine (63 HP)
- 1.3L petrol engine (82 HP)
- 1.4L petrol engine (97 HP)
- 1.5L diesel engine (110 HP)
- 1.6L petrol engine (106 HP)
These engines were paired with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Getz was praised for its fuel efficiency, particularly in urban driving conditions where it excelled.
Features and Technology
Despite its affordable price point, the Hyundai Getz came equipped with a respectable array of features, especially in higher trim levels. Some notable features included:
- Air conditioning
- Power steering
- Electric windows
- Central locking
- ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
- Dual front airbags
- CD player with MP3 compatibility
- Alloy wheels (on higher trim levels)
Later models introduced more advanced features such as:
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Side and curtain airbags
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Steering wheel-mounted audio controls
Safety
Safety was a key focus for Hyundai with the Getz. The car featured a rigid body structure designed to absorb and distribute impact forces in the event of a collision. Standard safety features included:
- Dual front airbags
- Seatbelt pretensioners
- ISOFIX child seat anchors
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
In Euro NCAP crash tests, the Getz achieved a respectable 4-star rating for adult occupant protection, showcasing Hyundai’s commitment to safety in the small car segment.
Market Reception and Legacy
The Hyundai Getz was well-received in many markets, particularly in Europe and Asia. Its combination of affordability, reliability, and practicality made it a popular choice for first-time car buyers and small families. The Getz played a crucial role in changing perceptions about Hyundai as a brand, helping to establish the Korean automaker as a serious contender in the global automotive market.
In many countries, the Getz became one of the best-selling models in its class. Its success paved the way for future Hyundai models and contributed to the brand’s growing reputation for quality and value.
The Getz in Motorsport
While not primarily designed for motorsport, the Hyundai Getz found its way into various racing series, particularly in rally competitions. The Getz was used as a platform for Hyundai’s F2 kit car in several national rally championships. Its lightweight design and nimble handling made it a popular choice for amateur rally drivers.
Environmental Impact
As environmental concerns grew in the automotive industry, the Hyundai Getz adapted to meet stricter emissions standards. Later models featured improved engine efficiency and reduced emissions, aligning with Hyundai’s broader commitment to sustainability.
Comparison with Competitors
To better understand the Hyundai Getz’s position in the market, let’s compare it with some of its key competitors:
| Feature | Hyundai Getz | Toyota Yaris | Ford Fiesta | Volkswagen Polo |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Size | 1.1L – 1.6L | 1.0L – 1.5L | 1.0L – 1.6L | 1.0L – 1.6L |
| Fuel Efficiency (Combined) | 5.5 – 6.5 L/100km | 5.1 – 6.3 L/100km | 5.2 – 6.8 L/100km | 5.0 – 6.1 L/100km |
| Boot Space | 288 L | 286 L | 292 L | 280 L |
| Safety Rating (Euro NCAP) | 4 stars | 5 stars | 5 stars | 5 stars |
| Price Range (2010 model) | €8,000 – €12,000 | €10,000 – €15,000 | €11,000 – €16,000 | €12,000 – €18,000 |
While the Getz may not have led in every category, it offered a compelling balance of features, performance, and value that made it a strong contender in the subcompact market.
The End of an Era
Production of the Hyundai Getz ceased in 2011, marking the end of a successful nine-year run. The model was replaced by the Hyundai i20, which built upon the Getz’s strengths while offering more modern styling and advanced features.
Lasting Impact
The Hyundai Getz left an indelible mark on the automotive landscape. It helped establish Hyundai as a serious player in the global car market, particularly in the subcompact segment. The Getz demonstrated that affordable cars could offer quality, reliability, and a touch of style, setting a new standard for entry-level vehicles.
Many of the lessons learned from the Getz’s development and market performance were applied to subsequent Hyundai models, contributing to the brand’s continued growth and success. The Getz’s legacy can be seen in Hyundai’s current lineup, which continues to offer value-packed vehicles with increasingly sophisticated features and design.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: When was the Hyundai Getz first introduced?
A: The Hyundai Getz was first introduced in 2002 at the Geneva Motor Show. - Q: What types of engines were available in the Hyundai Getz?
A: The Getz was offered with a range of petrol engines from 1.1L to 1.6L, and a 1.5L diesel engine in some markets. - Q: Was the Hyundai Getz available with an automatic transmission?
A: Yes, the Getz was available with both 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic transmissions. - Q: How did the Hyundai Getz perform in safety tests?
A: The Getz achieved a 4-star rating in Euro NCAP crash tests for adult occupant protection. - Q: When did Hyundai discontinue the Getz?
A: Production of the Hyundai Getz ceased in 2011, after a nine-year production run. - Q: What replaced the Hyundai Getz in Hyundai’s lineup?
A: The Hyundai i20 replaced the Getz in Hyundai’s lineup. - Q: Was the Hyundai Getz sold under different names in other markets?
A: Yes, it was known as the Hyundai Click in South Korea, Hyundai TB in Japan, and Dodge Brisa in Venezuela. - Q: Did the Hyundai Getz have any success in motorsport?
A: While not primarily designed for racing, the Getz was used in various rally competitions, particularly as a platform for Hyundai’s F2 kit car.
In conclusion, the Hyundai Getz represented a significant step forward for Hyundai in the subcompact car segment. Its blend of affordability, practicality, and reliability won over many consumers and helped change perceptions of the Hyundai brand. While it may no longer be in production, the Getz’s influence can still be felt in Hyundai’s current lineup and approach to car design and manufacturing.